# Letter apologising for missing a friend's party: IELTS Writing Task 1 samples

Writing Task 1 - General Training - Friends

A friend invited you to their birthday party last weekend, but you were not able to go.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter

Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Tom,

You should say:
- apologise for missing the party
- explain why you could not go
- suggest a way to celebrate together soon

Source: Sample answers and examiner notes are written by Testmigo.

## Band 7 sample

Dear Tom,

I'm really sorry that I missed your birthday party last Saturday. I know you were expecting me and I feel very bad about it, especially because it was your thirtieth.

The reason is that my younger sister suddenly got sick on Friday night with a high fever. My parents were away on holiday, so I had to stay with her and take her to the doctor on Saturday morning. She is much better now and back at school, but I couldn't leave her alone the whole day. I should have call you, but I was so busy that I completely forgot it.

I'd like to make it up to you. Are you free next weekend? We could go bowling like we used to, and then have pizza at that Italian place you like. Of course, I will pay for everything because it is your birthday present from me.

Please let me know what you think, and say hello to everyone from me. Hope to see you soon!

Take care,

Lucas

**Examiner notes.** This Band 7 letter apologises sincerely, explains the absence clearly and makes an appealing suggestion that suits an old friendship. The tone is friendly and consistent, but the language is fairly plain, and "The reason is that" sounds slightly formal. Errors such as "should have call" and "forgot it" are noticeable, and "it is your birthday present" is awkward. A Band 8 letter would use a wider idiomatic range and tell the story more vividly.

The Band 8 sample is free with an account on the [topic page](https://testmigo.com/ielts/writing/topics/task-1/letter-apologising-to-friend-for-missing-party).

## Common questions

### How many words should I write?

At least 150 words for Task 1 and 250 for Task 2. Writing a little more is fine; an answer under the minimum loses marks.

### Can I use these sample answers in my test?

No. Memorised material is marked down and you will not get this exact question. Use the samples to see what each band does with the same task.